Otto Carter
Master Insturctor
The art of engraving has intrigued me since I first learned it. Having been in the graphic design business for many years, I considered embellished metals to have a unique appeal.
 Engraving is an art that essentially adds beauty to ordinary objects. For centuries humankind has wanted to add personality and character to reflect individuality onto things he held in high esteem. Therefore engraving has been around as long as man has had metal upon which to work. From tools to jewelry to weapons of war, people have desired to make things they were proud of unique.
Through the centuries, the local styles of the period were reflected in engraving. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Celts, and others all had distinct types that could be seen through the various art forms of their culture. Within the last two hundred years, engraving on firearms has been transformed into a very high art form. European artisans elevated this art and established known styles that have become very popular today. As some of these artists moved Westward, they took with them these engraving styles. The American-style engraving was born from these European engravers who simplified the European techniques and adapted them to the needs of the faster-paced American market. As a lifelong student of design,
I try to gather inspiration from this broad pallet of styles. I aim to facilitate the customer's design needs by having insight reflecting his unique personality. As an old-world art, engraving is still executed with reasonably primitive equipment. Whether power assistance is used or not, engraving removes metal using a hammer and graver (chisel). Engraving is an exact art, done under high magnification, and requires a lot of patience. The challenge of the different elements of this art has appealed to me a great deal.
I want the opportunity to meet your needs as an engraver.